Well, we’re here to give you all the details — from beginning to end.
We’ll show you what CDL class you need, the steps and requirements to get a CDL, as well as the endorsements.
We’ll even include an FAQ section.
So welcome to your complete guide to the Maryland CDL requirements.
Commercial driver’s licenses are classified into 3 categories:
Before you begin your CDL application, it’s important to know which CDL class you need. In other words, what commercial vehicle do you want to operate?
To help you decide, let’s explain each class.
The Class A CDL is for combination commercial motor vehicles (CMV) with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more. The towed unit should have a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 10,000 pounds or more.
A Class B CDL is for combination and single CMVs with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more. However, if towing a unit, it should weigh less than 10,000 pounds.
Finally, the Class C CDL is for combination and single CMVs with a GVWR of fewer than 26,000 pounds. The unit it’s towing should not exceed a GVWR of 10,000 pounds.
The Class C CDL is also for commercial drivers that operate vehicles that are designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) and vehicles designed to transport hazardous materials and substances.
So you’ve determined which CDL class you need.
Are you even eligible to get a CDL in Maryland?
Let’s look at the basic requirements:
If you can meet the age requirements and provide all these documents, then go ahead and start working towards your CDL.
Just like a regular driver’s license, you will need to start with a permit — in this case, a commercial learner’s permit (CLP).
So let’s look at the requirements and steps.
To get a CLP in Maryland, follow these steps:
You can now practice driving your CMV.
Of course, like a regular learner’s permit, you always have to have a commercial licensed driver, at least 21 years old, on the passenger seat. Another thing, the one accompanying you must be in the same CDL class or higher as yours.
And here are the steps to getting a CDL in Maryland:
And there you have it!
You are now officially a licensed commercial driver in the state.
Apart from CDL classes, there are also endorsements placed on your CDL to indicate that you’re allowed to operate certain types of commercial vehicles.
In Maryland, there are 6 endorsement types, namely:
Now, you can add 2 endorsements to your CLP, while the other 4 can only be added to your CDL.
Here is a table to give you a clear idea about the endorsements in the state.
Got some questions about the CDL process in Maryland? Here are some FAQs that may answer your questions.
The CDL knowledge exam has 25 questions. You need to get a passing score of 80% to earn your CLP.
Your CLP is only valid for 6 months. If you’re ready to take the road test, you can apply as early as 14 days after having your CLP.
On average, a CDL course takes 1-2 months. If you’re studying part-time, it may take longer.
You can expect to pay around $4,500 for the whole CDL application. The bulk of this cost is the CDL school, which is at least $4,000. Other fees include the CLP fee and test fee ($90).
Additional fees include endorsement knowledge exams and retake exams.
Getting a citation or a moving violation when you have a driver’s license or a CLP disqualifies you from getting a CDL.
On average, the annual salary of a CDL driver in Maryland is $84,000.
And those were the Maryland CDL requirements.
The whole process is simple enough, although it might take some time (around a few months) before you can get hold of your CDL.
But with this complete guide, you just need to follow the steps one by one and you’ll get there soon enough.
So go ahead and pick your CDL class.
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